SCOTLAND'S largest electric bike hire scheme has been launched across the Wee County and surrounding areas.

Forth Bike was launched last Friday, June 21, at the Forth Valley Royal Hospital an impressive fleet of 120 electric bikes being provided to Clackmannanshire, Stirling and Falkirk.

The £500,000 initiative is funded by Transport Scotland, NHS Forth Valley, SESTRAN, Clackmannanshire Council, Stirling Council and Falkirk Council. It includes 12 bike hire charging stations, including one at the hospital.

Launching the scheme, Minister for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing, Joe FitzPatrick said: "I'm delighted to join Forth Environment Link and NHS Forth Valley to launch Forth Bike – Scotland's largest electric bike hire scheme. This flexible scheme provides affordable and easy access to modern e-bikes at a fraction of the cost required to buy the latest models.

"This initiative supports our climate ambitions, improves air quality and benefits our health and sense of wellbeing – directly contributing to our objective of developing an Active Nation, where more people can enjoy the benefits of walking and cycling than ever before."

An annual pass for Forth Bike, which uses the latest electric bikes by Canadian firm Bewegen Technologies Inc, will cost just £65 per year for unlimited journeys or £2 for a single journey.

Executive director of Forth Environment Link, Clara Walker said: "Forth Bike aims to connect communities across Forth Valley, opening-up access to services and employment opportunities by offering a flexible, inexpensive and environmentally friendly way to travel.

"Cycling is also great for our health. E-bikes give as little or as much assistance as you need, making them great for those getting back in the saddle or new to exercise."

Forth Environment Link has been working closely with NHS Forth Valley to get staff, patients and visitors to the hospital walking and cycling more. As well as an e-bike hire point, Forth Valley Royal Hospital will also be home to the UK's first hospital based active travel hub offering route planning advice and cycle training.

As well as boosting the health of residents, the three councils believe the e-bikes will prove a draw for tourists visiting the region.

Clackmannanshire Council's spokesperson for the environment, Councillor Craig Holden, said: "The council is proud to have played a part in this innovative scheme to give residents and visitors more choice in how they travel around our area and beyond. It will also add to Clackmannanshire's growing reputation as a destination for healthy, outdoors activities."

The e-bikes will last for up to 60 miles on a single charge, making them a viable alternative to cars.

For further information on the e-bike scheme call into Stirling or Falkirk Active Travel Hubs.